Ann was born in Canada in 1924. She was a nurse in the 1940s, and  lived all over the world. She now lives at home in Toronto, with her husband Bob (100), surrounded by 3 sons, 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. 

Maggie immigrated to Canada from Hungary in 1956, living on a farm before settling in Toronto. She ran a variety sandwich shop with her husband until they retired in the late 80s, making the majority of their income off of sandwiches. Their first sandwich, a baloney sandwich, sold for 10 cents. 

Ann and Maggie both grew up in a time when the use of makeup had very strong associations. It suggested that you were either frivolous or vain at best. If you were to wear makeup, wear it in private. But best not to wear any at all. Ann shared with us a time she and a friend put on lipstick, only to have the friend’s father see and demand it all come off. Maggie was taught that one should only use “natural colour” – essentially you should not appear to be wearing any makeup at all. 

We are so fortunate to have grown up with, and still have these amazing women in our lives, and to share 19/99 with Ann and Maggie. Our conversations with them reminded us of what compelled us to start 19/99 in the first place – to empower individuals to define beauty on their own terms. 19/99 believes we should all embrace our individual ideals of beauty without fear or hesitation and free of external expectations. As far as we’re concerned, anything goes – whether it’s bold, minimal, maximal, or Maggie’s “natural colour.” It’s your choice. Wear it proudly.

Ann and Maggie have lived extraordinary lives, and their faces show it. They are an inspiration. If only we are so lucky to get old, and look just like them. 

- Stephanie and Camille